Jokowi Urges All Indonesians to Unite for Eradicating Online Gambling

Jakarta – Indonesian President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) invited the public to not engage in gambling both online and offline.

"Don't play gambling, It's better to save the money or use it for business capital," the President stated at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta through the YouTube official channel on Wednesday.

The head of state also highlighted the negative impacts of gambling practices. Starting from the loss of property, broken family, to the increae in crime and violence that occurs in the community.

"Gambling isn't just about risking money or a casual game for prizes. Gambling risks the future, both for oneself, one's family, and our children," the President emphasized.

Therefore, the Head of State affirmed that the government is seriously continuing its efforts to eradicate and combat online gambling.

According to the President, more than 2.1 million online gambling sites have been shut down by the government, in addition to the formation of a task force.

"The online gambling task force will soon be completed, and we hope it will expedite the eradication of online gambling," the President said.

Recognizing that online gambling has a transnational nature and involves various jurisdictions, the President emphasized the importance of community participation in eradicating online gambling.

"One of the most important defenses is the defense from our own community and personal defense,"

Moreover, President Jokowi called on religious leaders, community leaders, and citizens to actively remind, monitor, and report all forms of gambling activities.

Active involvement from all layers of society plays a critical role in building national defense against online gambling.